Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
Alternative names
Medicine storageInformation Return to top
Many people store their medications in the bathroom. But this popular spot is actually one of the worst places to keep medicine. Bathroom cabinets tend to be warm and humid, an environment that accelerates a drug's decomposition. Instead, keep medicines in a cool, dry place away from the bathroom and out of a child's reach.
This is especially true for tablets and capsules. Unnecessary exposure to heat and moisture can cause them to lose their potency prior to their labeled expiration date. For example, a warm, muggy environment can cause aspirin tablets to break down into acetic acid (vinegar) and salicyclic acid, both of which are potential stomach irritants.
If you must keep them in the bathroom, always keep the containers tightly closed. Never repackage them.
If medicines are to be stored in a kitchen, store them away from the stove, sink, and any heat-releasing appliances.
In rare cases, an improperly stored medication can actually become toxic. To prevent danger, follow these tips:
TRAVEL TIPS
Travelers need to follow additional tips for safe storage of their medications:
More information on travel tips and safe storage of medicines is available through the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacists at www.safemedication.com.
Update Date: 9/12/2003 Updated by: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston Ma., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Written by Kelli Miller, freelance medical writer.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |